Ocean water commonly causes immediate discomfort when it enters the eyes, but permanent damage from the salt content alone is rare. This context refers to non-sterile natural sources like the sea, not medical saline solutions. While the stinging and redness are intense, the irritation is typically temporary and resolves quickly. The primary risk from sea or ocean water lies not in its salinity, but in the unseen biological contaminants present.
Why Salt Water Causes Stinging and Redness
The immediate burning sensation when ocean water enters the eye is a direct consequence of osmosis. Tears have a specific salt concentration that is relatively low compared to the high concentration of salt in the ocean. Ocean water is considered a hypertonic solution because it is significantly saltier than the fluid inside the corneal cells.
When this hypertonic water contacts the eye, osmosis drives water out of the corneal cells to balance the salt concentration. This rapid drawing of moisture causes temporary dehydration of the delicate corneal surface and the conjunctiva. This cellular water loss is interpreted as stinging, burning, and irritation, leading to noticeable redness. The discomfort is the body’s response to correct the osmotic imbalance and restore the eye’s natural fluid levels.
The Threat of Pathogens and Infection
Although salt causes only transient irritation, the non-sterile nature of natural water sources introduces the risk of infection. Sea, lake, and even tap water can harbor various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and amoebas. These pathogens pose a risk of developing serious eye infections, which are the primary concern for long-term eye health after water exposure.
One concerning, though rare, infection is Acanthamoeba keratitis, caused by a microscopic amoeba found in fresh and salt water. This amoeba can invade the cornea, causing inflammation and damage that is difficult to treat, sometimes leading to vision loss or blindness. The risk of severe infection is higher for individuals who wear contact lenses, as the lenses can trap pathogens against the eye’s surface.
Other potential risks include bacterial infections like conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, which is easily transmitted in contaminated water. Microbes like Pseudomonas aeruginosa can also lead to painful keratitis. These infections, rather than the salt, cause structural damage to the eye if not promptly addressed.
Immediate Steps for Eye Relief
The most important step after getting salt water in your eyes is to flush them immediately and thoroughly with clean, fresh water. Use a gentle, steady stream of clean tap water, or sterile saline solution if available, for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This action washes away remaining salt and potential microorganisms, while restoring the osmotic balance of the eye’s surface.
After flushing, use preservative-free artificial tears to soothe dryness and lubricate the irritated eye. Avoid touching or rubbing the eyes, as this can worsen irritation or cause a corneal abrasion. If pain, redness, blurred vision, or foreign body sensation persists for more than 24 hours, or if you notice any discharge, seek medical attention immediately, as these are signs of a potential infection.